Colgate University’s Club Equestrian team delivered a standout performance at Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) Regionals, hosted at Skidmore College, with multiple riders turning in strong rides and advancing to the next level of postseason competition. In a format where only the top two finishers in each class move on, the stakes were high — but Colgate rose to the occasion.
Leading the way was senior Ally Song, who qualified for Zones as the team’s open rider. Competing in the highest division, Song will now face top riders from across multiple regions as she looks to extend her season.
“It’s definitely a high-stakes competition because you have to place in the top two to move ahead,” Song said. “But it’s exciting to ride among the best of the best.”
Sophomore Alex Peto also secured a spot at Zones in limit flat after a composed and technically strong ride. Peto said her success came down to attention to detail and confidence in the ring.
“I focused on keeping my body position tall and making my cues as invisible as possible,” Peto said.
Her performance highlighted the precision required at this level, where small adjustments can separate qualifiers from the rest of the field.
IHSA competition is uniquely challenging, requiring riders to compete on unfamiliar horses assigned at random through a draw system. With no warm-up and minimal time to adjust, riders must quickly assess their mount and adapt mid-ride. This format places a premium on versatility, composure and decision-making — skills Colgate’s riders demonstrated throughout the day.
Despite the individual nature of equestrian competition, Colgate’s team dynamic remains a key factor in its success. Throughout the long day of competition, stretching from early morning to late afternoon, teammates support one another, cheering on every ride regardless of the outcome. Sophomore captain Sophie Macallister commented on the supportive team environment.
“We all gather together at the edge of the ring and always clap and cheer after everyone’s round,” Macallister said.
In Macallister’s role as captain, has helped foster a team culture built on positivity and accountability. Even in a sport where results are individually determined, Colgate emphasizes collective support and shared success. Riders earn points not only for themselves but also for the team, adding another layer of competition and motivation.
Leadership has been especially important this season, with senior captain Brennan Donnelly playing a key role in shaping the team’s environment. Donnelly was recognized at Regionals with the sportsmanship award, a reflection of her impact on and off the field. She said that club equestrian has played an important part of her life throughout her time on the team.
“This team has been one of the best parts of my Colgate experience,” Donnelly said.
Looking ahead, the focus now shifts to Zones, where the competition intensifies against riders from five different regions. Song, who is competing at Zones for the first time, noted how the opportunity brings both excitement and nerves.
“It’s a whole new field of competition, and our zone is especially strong,” Song said.
Even for riders whose postseason runs have ended, the season continues through practices and team activities. The emphasis remains on development, enjoyment and a shared passion for the sport.
With strong performances at Regionals and multiple riders advancing, Colgate heads into Zones with momentum — and the confidence that comes from a team that competes not just with skill, but with unity.
